PSC Names Karen Wilson as Legislative Director

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Dec. 10, 2018) – Karen Wilson, a 22-year employee of Kentucky state government, has joined the staff of the Kentucky Public Service Commission as its legislative liaison and executive advisor to the commissioners.

Wilson most recently served a policy advisor in the Department of Energy Policy in the Energy and Environment Cabinet (EEC). She previously held several other posts in EEC and also worked in the Governor’s Office of Energy Policy.

“With her extensive experience and knowledge, Karen will be an effective liaison between the PSC and the Kentucky General Assembly,” PSC Chairman Michael Schmitt said. “This is a time of rapid change in the energy sector, and we are fortunate to have someone like Karen to both advise the commission and provide information to legislators.”

PSC Executive Director Gwen Pinson, who also has extensive experience in state government, said that Wilson has earned a reputation within the commonwealth as someone with a deep understanding of energy policy.

“Karen will be a tremendous asset to the PSC,” Pinson said. “Through her work in energy policy, she is already well known and well respected throughout state government, and will have an immediate positive impact.”

“I have interacted with the PSC many times through my previous work,” Wilson said. “I know from personal experience that the PSC’s reputation as one of the most capable agencies in state government is well deserved, and I am thrilled to be a part of this organization.”

Wilson grew up in Shelby County and holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Masters of Public Administration, both from the University of Kentucky. She was recognized as the 2017 Distinguished Alumna by the University of Kentucky’s Martin School for Public Policy and Administration.

The PSC is an independent agency attached for administrative purposes to the Energy and Environment Cabinet. It regulates more than 1,100 gas, water, sewer, electric and telecommunication utilities operating in Kentucky.